“Rogers Explorers helped me realize that I wanted to go into a field of science,” she said. “I really enjoyed the hands-on science projects, and it helped me realize science is fun.”

Allen was among 30 students from 16 Kentucky communities to graduate from the first of four summer sessions of the 2013 Rogers Explorers program on June 4 at Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia.

“The purpose of the Rogers Explorers program is to give students a taste of college life before they enter high school, so they have a better understanding of what they will be working toward in high school,” said Delaney Stephens, youth programs coordinator and community liaison at The Center.” “It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students.”

The Rogers Explorers program exposes middle school graduates to different fields of study in math, science, and technology, and encourages them to consider a possible career in these in-demand areas.

On the campus of Lindsey Wilson College, Explorers took classes in communication, energy, and science from college professors; honed their leadership and critical-thinking skills in a session led by the college’s Dean of Students Chris Schmidt; and participated in a videoconference with NASA officials.

Graduates of the Rogers Explorers program on the campus of Lindsey Wilson College were: